obama with 51% support compared to 44% for mitt romney. the poll surveyed voters in more than half a dozen states. susan mcginnis joins us live. >> reporter: good morning. everybody is getting sick of these polls. it is what they show that the president has within reach the 270 electoral votes needed to win. he is still coming under lots of criticism over handling of foreign affairs >> more than 11,000 people packed a high school in las vegas sunday night to listen to president obama. >> we'll win nevada again. we'll win this election against. >> last scheduled appearance before the first presidential debate on wednesday. >> governor romney he's a good debater. i'm just okay. >> romney fit in another rehearsal after church in boston on sunday. he's not practicing since june. his running mate paul ryan says this will not be a defining moment. >> i don't think one event is going to make or break this campaign. >> parentally not everyone got the memo to downplay expectations >> thursday morning you are going to be scratching your heads and sa